The unique OECD peer review process has helped improve public policy. It assesses how countries manage the design, adoption and enforcement of regulations according to a conceptual framework. It ensures comparability while taking account of institutional and cultural differences across countries.

Export restrictions on raw materials can have a negative impact on the efficient allocation of resources, international trade and the competitiveness and development of industries in both importing and exporting countries, according to this collection of papers.

An important criterion for the success of regulatory reform is whether regulatory systems accomplish their policy objectives. Despite a massive increase in regulation and government-imposed formalities in most countries since the 1970s, results have too often been disappointing.

The report examines the role of institutions in the promotion of regulatory reform. It highlights how Regulatory Impact Assessment has facilitated the introduction of mechanisms of systematic consultation with those affected by reforms.